Assistant Director

Lawrence Unified School District (KS) Administrator USD 497 - Lawrence, Kansas Open in Google Maps ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS This job is also posted in Lawrence Unified School District (KS) Job Details Job ID: 5823578 Application Deadline: Jul 22, 2026 11:59 PM (Central Standard Time) Posted: Jul 08, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC) Starting Date: Immediately Job Summary Lawrence Public Schools is a district of momentum, committed to timely, factual, transparent, and engaging communication that strengthens trust, celebrates achievement, and supports student success. The Assistant Director of Communications serves as a strategic communications leader and trusted partner responsible for advancing the district’s communication priorities through dynamic storytelling, efficient project management, proactive media relations, and meaningful community engagement. Working in support of the Director of Communications, this position supports the management of complex communications initiatives from concept through completion, working collaboratively across departments, schools, and community partners. The Assistant Director serves as a highly skilled writer, strategist, and project manager who can independently identify communication needs, develop solutions, execute and deliver projects with minimal supervision. The Assistant Director helps amplify the stories of students, staff, and schools while supporting district priorities, strengthening community trust, and enhancing the district’s reputation through proactive communication and relationship-building. Education Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, English, or a related field required. Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Educational Leadership, or related field preferred. Experience Minimum of three (3-5) years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public information, or a related field. Demonstrated experience managing complex communication projects and programs from initiation through completion. Ability to produce high-quality communications deliverables including news releases, feature stories, newsletters, website content, social media campaigns, speeches, presentations, marketing materials, and communication plans. Significant professional writing and content development experience across multiple communication platforms. Experience in research, planning, implementing, and evaluating communication plans and/or campaigns. Experience working in education, government, nonprofit, or other public-serving organizations preferred. Preferred Characteristics The ideal candidate is a strategic storyteller, skilled project and program manager, and trusted communications professional who can take ownership of projects, build strong relationships, and deliver high-quality work with minimal oversight. This individual is highly organized, adaptable, creative, and capable of turning ideas into action while supporting district leadership and advancing organizational goals. Core Competencies Content Strategy Develop compelling messaging that elevates district priorities, student achievement, staff excellence, and community partnerships. Translate complex topics into clear, engaging content for a variety of audiences and communication channels. Demonstrate exceptional writing, editing, and message development skills across digital, print, social media, video, presentations, and executive communications. Ensure messaging remains consistent, timely, accessible, and aligned with district branding standards. Oversee communication analytics and recommend strategies for continuous improvement. Project & Program Management Support the Director of Communication in leading and managing district communication campaigns, initiatives, and special projects from planning through execution and evaluation. Develop project plans, timelines, deliverables, and communication strategies that align with district goals. Manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously while maintaining quality, accuracy, and deadlines. Anticipate communication needs and proactively advance projects with minimal direction. Media Relations & Public Information Build and maintain positive relationships with local, regional, and state media. Assist in drafting news releases, media advisories, talking points, statements, and responses to media inquiries. Assist with proactive media outreach and story placement efforts. Monitor media coverage and provide timely reporting and recommendations to district leadership. Community Engagement & Public Relations Support initiatives that strengthen connections between schools, families, staff, and community stakeholders. As needed, represent the district at community meetings, events, and partnership activities as assigned. Help identify opportunities to increase awareness and engagement around district programs and priorities. Leadership & Collaboration Collaborate closely with district departments, school leaders, and community partners to develop communication strategies that support organizational goals. Develop and manage timelines, workflows, and cross-departmental collaboration for planned communication initiatives such as bond campaigns, enrollment outreach, and program launches. Serve as a communications lead for unanticipated issues and emerging situations, rapidly developing response plans in coordination with the Director, district leadership, and building principals. Track project metrics and outcomes to evaluate effectiveness and inform future communication strategies. Serve as a trusted strategic partner to the Director of Communications with the ability to step in and ensure continuity of communication operations and support as needed. Advocacy for Public Education Champion the value of public education in all communications, positioning the district as a cornerstone of the Lawrence community. Support the Superintendent and Board in legislative advocacy by preparing materials, talking points, and communications for elected officials and community partners. Cultivate partnerships with families, community organizations, businesses, and civic leaders that advance the district’s mission and strengthen public trust in public education. Essential Functions Support the Director of Communication in leading and managing communication planning and execution for district initiatives, programs, events, and strategic priorities. Manage multiple communications projects simultaneously while balancing competing deadlines and priorities. Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans, including messaging, content creation, stakeholder outreach, and evaluation. Write and edit high-quality content including news releases, feature stories, speeches, presentations, newsletters, website content, social media content, talking points, and executive communications. Maintain a strong portfolio of professional writing, storytelling, campaign, and communication work demonstrating measurable impact. Coordinate with departments and schools to identify stories, achievements, and communication opportunities. Under the direction of the Director of Communication, build relationships with school leaders, media representatives and coordinate media requests, interviews, and story development. Monitor media coverage and public discourse, identifying opportunities and emerging issues. Assist in the planning and execution of crisis, safety, and emergency communications. Support district branding, marketing, recruitment, and public engagement initiatives. Track communication performance metrics and prepare reports evaluating campaign and project effectiveness. Serve as a visible representative of the Communications Department at district and community events. Provide support for Board of Education, Superintendent, and Executive Leadership communication initiatives as assigned. Perform other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Exceptional writing, editing, proofreading, and storytelling abilities. Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines simultaneously. Strong project management and organizational skills. Ability to independently identify needs, develop solutions, and execute projects with limited supervision. Strong media relations and relationship-building skills. Ability to think strategically while executing tactically. Strong interpersonal, presentation, and communication skills. Knowledge of digital communications, social media strategy, website content management, and analytics. Ability to work effectively in fast-paced environments and respond to emerging issues with professionalism and sound judgment. Commitment to public education and service to students, families, staff, and community. Demonstrated ability to collaborate across departments and build trust with diverse stakeholders. The tasks listed in this position are subject to change at the discretion of the superintendent/designee. The incumbent is expected to take on other duties as requested or assigned by his/her supervisor. LENGTH OF CONTRACT: Twelve-month administrative contract SALARY RANGE: Commensurate with prior leadership experience and includes fringe benefit package. Evaluation Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on Evaluation. Position Type: Full-Time Job Categories: Administration > Director/Coordinator/Manager Job Categories: Organization-level Positions > Assistant Director #J-18808-Ljbffr